Simple Surgery, Big Benefit

Dr. Robert Brems with a cataract patient in Peru on a medical mission sponsored by Advance

In a complicated and fast-paced world, it is easy to fall victim to the notion that nothing can really be done to improve the lives of others.

But, there are simple things that health professionals can do internationally that yield tremendous benefits. 

One example is preventing blindness caused by cataracts. It is a routine procedure in developed countries, but it is hard to come by in low- and middle-income countries. 

It is estimated that cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide, with the majority of those with blindness living in low- and middle-income countries. Cataracts are also the leading cause of vision loss in the United States. This is why PreventBlindness.org has declared June as Cataract Awareness Month. June is a time to raise awareness about this vision condition, and Advance has much experience with cataract surgeries around the world. 

Imagine living where your vision is blurry, colors are faded, you have double vision, need more light to read, or have difficulty seeing at night.  These are all changes that occur due to cataracts before even more limited vision or blindness happens. This can greatly affect everyday life.

One cataract surgery can completely change a person’s life by improving their mobility, increasing the amount of time they can work, and providing a better quality of life.

Advance Community has extensive experience with healthcare missions that transform lives, such as visiting Peru to conduct cataract surgeries.

Cataract surgeries are also relatively inexpensive as health interventions are concerned. Advance has brigades that can perform this surgery for as little as $250 per operation. On Advance’s trip to Peru, 81 cataract surgeries were conducted. 

Even more importantly, Advance does not do its work alone; rather, it partners with local organizations to coordinate and provide capacity strengthening. One such partner is CADEP. It not only coordinates surgeries but follows up with patients after their surgery to ensure they are doing well and recovering properly.

Cataract surgery comes with a low risk of complications and a quick recovery time, and there are other unexpected positive benefits such as preventing injuries from falls, lowering the risk of dementia, and more fun!

The gift of sight is powerful. So, this June, please consider donating to Advance to support cataract surgery for someone struggling with the health condition in a place where healthcare systems do not support cataract removal.

To donate to Advance for a cataract surgery, please visit this page.